President’s Letter

Category: President's Page

Dear UB Alumni and Friends:

In deciding what to include in my final letter for the University of Baltimore Magazine, I faced a challenge that is likely shared by many who are approaching a milestone in their professional lives. How do you sum up your experiences without sounding self-involved? Can you share how personally meaningful your time has been without sounding trite or maudlin? Is it possible to recognize everyone who has contributed to making the past 12 years the most rewarding of your career?

For me, the answer turned out to be easy, if not simple: Since 2002, I’ve been fortunate to be part of a community that is unwavering in its dedication to its students, its willingness to embrace change and its commitment to the well-being of our city and our region.

Many of UB’s accomplishments during the past decade-plus are outlined in this issue of the magazine. But another challenge during a time of transition is to avoid turning recollection and reflection into a laundry list of accomplishments. As impressive as that list would be, it would miss what I believe is the most important element of all: the people who make up the UB community.

Our community is the main reason the University of Baltimore has achieved so much in the past and why it faces a future rich with possibilities. The contributions of our more than 55,500 alumni—as leaders in their professions and in their communities—have increased awareness of the integral role that UB plays in Baltimore, in the region and beyond. And because of your generous support of our faculty, staff and particularly our students, you are entitled to celebrate with us this remarkable chapter in our University’s history.

It hasn’t always been easy; few things worth doing in life ever are. Universities are complex organizations, and UB is no exception. We’ve experienced the creative tensions that inevitably accompany change and the healthy skepticism and steadfast commitment of intelligent people. But I’ve come to appreciate that these experiences have led to smarter decisions and better outcomes, and I know that our community is stronger today because of the shared paths we’ve taken. In fact, the strength and quality of our faculty, staff, University and UB Foundation leadership teams, and alumni helped inform the timing of my decision: I leave office confident that UB is in great hands and is well positioned for continued success.

I’ve had a varied career—in higher education, government and the corporate world. I’ve participated in major litigation and transacted high-level business deals. These experiences have taught me an important career and life lesson: Ultimately, satisfaction isn’t measured by cases won or dollars gained. Professional and personal fulfillment is greatest when you are able to go to work every day knowing that you have the chance to do something meaningful. Because of the University of Baltimore, I can close this most gratifying chapter of my professional life knowing that I’ve been part of something that matters.

For that, I thank you—the UB and greater Baltimore communities. There is much to be proud of and much to look forward to as you help your University write the next chapter of the UB story. Whatever form it takes and wherever it leads, I know it will be a story of accomplishment and a story that matters, because that is the essence of the University of Baltimore.